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Americans are falling out of love with McDonald’s, Taco Bell

NOT LOVIN' IT:The results track with sales results at many of the major fast-food chains, which are struggling to find the right recipe to woo younger U.S. diners who increasingly are seeking fresher, healthier food. Photo: Reuters

(Reuters) – Fast-food titans McDonald’s, Taco Bell and KFC are conquering the globe, but they are losing to the likes of In-N-Out Burger, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Chick-fil-A in the United States, according to Consumer Reports’ latest fast-food survey.

The survey, released on Wednesday, ranked regional chain In-N-Out-Burger the industry’s best hamburger chain, based on food quality, value and service. Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill was the No. 1 Mexican chain, followed by Chipotle, while Chick-fil-A ranked highest among chicken chains.

The results track with sales results at many of the major fast-food chains, which are struggling to find the right recipe to woo younger U.S. diners who increasingly are seeking fresher, healthier food.

“More and more, food quality – not just low price – is emerging as a deciding-factor for many Americans,” said Tod Marks, senior projects editor for Consumer Reports.

In-N-Out Burger, The Habit Burger Grill and Culver’s. McDonald’s Corp , the world’s largest chain but a laggard when it comes to taste, finished behind 20 others, including Jack in the Box Inc , Wendy’s Co and Burger King Worldwide Inc .

Chick-fil-A, which has stirred fiery debate with its anti-gay marriage stance, also led in service and clean surroundings.

Del Taco got first place for “more for your money”.

Privately held Subway, whose pitch man Jared Fogle lost more than 200 lbs on a diet of the privately held sandwich seller’s food, was No. 1 for healthful choices, followed by Jason’s Deli and Panera Bread Co .

When it comes to unhealthy “foods to fear,” Consumer Reports called out Firehouse Subs’ large Sweet Thai Chili Pork Sub that clocked in at 1,541 calories, 95 grams of fat and 3,458 milligrams of sodium.

U.S. dietary guidelines recommend individuals consume no more than 2,000 calories, 65 grams of fat and 2,300 milligrams of sodium daily.